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Updated: Apr 20, 2026
Identification of Rare Bacterial Pathogens by 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS
Published on: July 11, 2016
Campylobacter jejuni, an uncommon cause of splenic abscess diagnosed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing
Piseth Seng1, Fanny Quenard2, Amélie Menard2
1Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Centre Interrégional de Référence des Infections Ostéo-articulaires Méditerranée Sud, CHU de la Conception, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, 147, boulevard Baille, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
Abstract:
Splenic abscess is a rare disease that primarily occurs in patients with splenic trauma, endocarditis, sickle cell anemia, or other diseases that compromise the immune system. This report describes a culture-negative splenic abscess in an immunocompetent patient caused by Campylobacter jejuni, as determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Insights
A rare splenic abscess in an immunocompetent patient was caused by Campylobacter jejuni. This finding was confirmed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing when traditional cultures were negative.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Genomics
Background:
- Splenic abscess is a rare condition, typically seen in immunocompromised individuals or those with specific risk factors like trauma or sickle cell anemia.
- Conventional diagnostic methods often rely on microbial cultures, which can be negative in certain cases.
Observation:
- This case report details a splenic abscess in a patient with a competent immune system.
- Standard microbiological cultures of the abscess yielded no growth, presenting a diagnostic challenge.
Findings:
- The causative agent was identified as Campylobacter jejuni through advanced 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
- This molecular technique proved crucial in diagnosing a culture-negative infection.
Implications:
- Highlights the utility of 16S rRNA gene sequencing in identifying pathogens in culture-negative infections.
- Expands the known spectrum of pathogens causing splenic abscesses, even in immunocompetent hosts.
- Suggests considering Campylobacter jejuni in the differential diagnosis of splenic abscesses, particularly when cultures are unrevealing.
